The U.S.-based iterations of Maker Faire, annual celebrations of all things DIY (we attended Maker Faire Bay Area), are famous for their out-of-this-world gadgets and contraptions. Maker Faire Africa is no different. Now in its second year, the Nairobi, Kenya-based fair showcases everything from robotic porridge-cooking machines (above) to solar-powered computer kiosks made out of oil drums (below).

Though the showcased gadgets may look similar to those found at other Maker Faires, the African Faire has a different motivation than its Western counterparts. In a recent interview with FastCompany.com, Steve Daniels, co-founder of Maker Faire Rhode Island, explains, “The first event in California might have seemed like giant sprawling
science fair, but as the event moved to new locations it took on new
meanings. In Africa the event connects artisans in an attempt to move
the continent into a grassroots industrial era.”

Maker Faire Africa is small, with just 137 confirmed guests for this year’s event (held this week) on its Facebook page. But, like the U.S.-based Faires, which attract thousands of guests, we imagine that Maker Faire Africa will grow in popularity as it gains recognition. There is certainly no shortage of ingenuity at the event. Below, check out one of our favorite attendees–a group of designers that makes jewelry out of butcher bones.